We celebrated the Butler Christmas at a ranch in Abilene. My sister-in-law's family invited us for a weekend in the country, and it was perfect. I cannot remember when I have had a better time. It was relaxing and hearty...good for the soul and senses. Country folk really do have the most fun...especially if those country folk are from Texas!
Simple gifts...nothing extravagant.
Rustic ambiance.
A warm and cozy bunkhouse. My oldest brother Josh said, "This feels like church camp."
We gather in the kitchen. Lots of great conversation.
Tamales and our parents! Two of my favorite things.
Lots of cooking.
More cooking.
A porch swing.
Cheese and wine.
The best food. Featuring a prime rib with horseradish sauce and au jus.
Outdoor fun! We also took a Christmas carol hayride underneath the Abilene starlit sky.
Four wheelin' on trails. Throwing rocks in the pond. Looking for wildlife. Kickin'up dirt!
A large covered porch for outdoor fun.
A spirited game of spoons!
Cousins are the best!
Amma brought a bag of Christmas books to read to the grands!
Christmas dishes with red solo cups...what's more country than that?
The girls made blankets together!
The smiles come easy.
The dogs are in heaven.
That bunkhouse is amazing! What a wonderful event that seems like it was facilitated in all the best ways by the setting. So glad God "sets the solitary in families."
ReplyDeleteWhat a timely word for me...thank you Gretchen Joanna. It was a lovely time for our family.
DeleteYou had an early Christmas celebration!!! I ♥ the girls wrapped in their fleece blankets. Looks like a nice cozy place for a gathering! I helped make tamales once (when we were invited by a friend who lives in NM) and she actually now lives in TX...is it something you make often? I know it's a Christmas tradition.
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